Cult Gaia, Chiao Li Hsu
Photography: Campbell Addy
With New Year's Eve just around the corner, now is the perfect time to start planning your outfit for the big night. Take inspiration from the wise and mysterious Wood Snake, the symbol of 2025, to create a look that’s both stylish and meaningful.
In Chinese astrology each year is associated with one of 12 animal signs and one of the five elements: metal, wood, water, fire, or earth. Every animal and element brings its own special qualities, symbolism, and influences, shaping the unique energy of the year they represent.
The Year of the Wood Snake combines wisdom, intuition, and untapped potential in a truly unique way. The wood element infuses creativity, resilience, and growth, beautifully complementing the Snake’s natural intelligence and depth. Together, they form a powerful synergy, inspiring us to embrace change, think creatively, and tackle challenges with thoughtfulness and care.
To attract good fortune in 2025, incorporate the Wood Snake’s color palette into your New Year’s Eve wardrobe. By aligning your look with the Snake’s energy and symbolism, you’ll set the tone for a stylish celebration and welcome positivity and prosperity into the year ahead.
Green
Green, beloved by the Wood Dragon of 2024, remains a signature color for the enigmatic Wood Snake. Calming, natural shades of green make an excellent choice for your New Year's wardrobe. Symbolizing renewal, growth, healing, and harmony, this color beautifully aligns with the Snake's spirit and energy. One of green's greatest strengths is how versatile and timeless it is, flattering nearly everyone who wears it. Consider rich emerald, refreshing mint, pistachio, or any other green hue for the perfect Snake-approved look.
1. Toteme The Sharp Slingback Pumps, $650
2. 16Arlington Electra Sequined Midi Dress, $1,570
3. Bode Bow Hair Clip, $295
4. Dries Van Noten Lamé Midi Skirt, $685
5. Simone Rocha Green Daisy Solo Ring, $79
6. Jacquemus 'La Pochette Rond Carré' Clutch, $1,060
Gold
Gold is often considered a traditional choice for New Year's Eve, as it’s believed to attract exciting opportunities and good fortune. It’s warm, elegant, and rich with meaning. A gold necklace, shimmering gold earrings, or even a chic gold dress or suit will have you shining all night long. Just remember not to go overboard—keep it minimal. The Wood Snake isn’t a fan of excessive flash and prefers simple, elegant cuts.
1. Jacquemus 'Le Collier J' Choker, $314
2. Harbison Seraphim Metallic Plissé Mini Dress, $1,695
3. Bottega Veneta Mini Sardine Bag, $3,650
4. Miu Miu Matallic Leather Ballet Flats, $950
5. Panconesi Three Point Single Ear Cuff, $155
6. Dries Van Noten Gold-Foiled Pinstripe Blazer, $1,470
Brown
Brown embodies the grounding, earthy essence of the Wood element, perfectly aligning with what the upcoming year calls for. While brown may not always be considered a 'celebratory' color, it offers a subtle but powerful beauty. It's comforting yet full of strength; it reflects stability and supports growth—everything the Wood Snake embodies. Be it deep chocolate brown or chestnut, each shade of brown gives off a cozy, timeless feel.
1. Acne Studios Satin Midi Dress, $540
2. Cult Gaia Paloma Clutch, $348
3. Jennifer Behr Tori Satin Headband, $185
4. Bottega Veneta Bunnie Mules, $1,350
5. Galvan Vesper Velvet Jumpsuit, $1,288
6. Dries Van Noten Embroidered Earrings, $290
Burgundy
There’s something undeniably intriguing and mysterious about burgundy, especially in its deeper shades. Calmer than bright, fiery red, it carries a beautiful brownish undertone that feels perfectly aligned with the symbol of 2025. Burgundy reflects the Snake’s depth and transformative energy while exuding confidence and passion—an ideal choice for a year of growth and change.
1. Miu Miu Patent Leather Slingbacks, $1,370
2. Khaite Olula Draped Silk Maxi Skirt, $1,800
3. Miu Miu Enameled Metal Hair Clip, $380
4. Staud Tommy Beaded Bag, $236
5. Panconesi Serpent Hoops, $286
6. Coperni Asymmetric Flower Midi Dress, $710
Snake Motifs
Celebrate the arrival of the Wood Snake year with textures and designs that echo the snake's skin. The snake-inspired pattern symbolizes transformation and adaptability, helping you navigate changes and challenges with greater ease. Incorporate the patern into accessories or standalone clothing pieces to add a dash of boldness and mystery to your look. But remember—real snake skin goes against the spirit of the symbol, so opt for faux alternatives instead.
1. Bvlgari Serpenti Forever Bracelet, $650
2. Marine Serre All Over Moon Snake-Print Dress, $468
3. Aeyde Clara Heels, $425
4. Kuzyk The Mick Snake-Embossed Leather Jacket, $689
5. Jacquemus 'Le Petit Calino' Bag, $1,235
6. Ileana Makri Little Snake Earrings with Diamonds Green, $1,130
